Famous Landmarks in Eritrea
Eritrea, located in the Horn of Africa, is a country with a rich and complex history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. It is known for its ancient archaeological sites, modernist architecture, diverse ethnic groups, and pristine coastline along the Red Sea. Despite its relatively low profile on the global tourism map, Eritrea offers travelers a unique and authentic experience with its unspoiled landscapes, historic landmarks, and a fascinating mix of cultural influences from Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.
The capital city, Asmara, is often referred to as “Little Rome” due to its well-preserved Italian colonial architecture and Art Deco buildings, making it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Outside Asmara, visitors can explore the ancient port city of Adulis, traditional villages, and beautiful coastal areas such as the Dahlak Archipelago. Eritrea’s long history, including its role in ancient civilizations and its colonial past, offers visitors a deep dive into the past, while its peaceful atmosphere and friendly locals create a warm welcome for travelers.
Despite challenges such as limited infrastructure and strict travel regulations, Eritrea’s natural and historical landmarks offer a rewarding experience for those willing to explore this off-the-beaten-path destination.
Top 10 Famous Landmarks in Eritrea
1. Asmara Modernist Architecture (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Overview
Asmara, the capital of Eritrea, is renowned for its stunning collection of Modernist and Art Deco architecture, much of which was built during the Italian colonial period in the early 20th century. The city has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its unique blend of European architectural styles, including Futurism, Rationalism, and Novecento. Asmara’s wide streets, colorful buildings, and eclectic designs make it a living museum of early modern architecture. Visitors can explore landmarks like the Fiat Tagliero Building, the Cinema Impero, and the Asmara Cathedral, which showcase the city’s historic and architectural significance.
Location
Located in the center of Asmara, Eritrea’s capital city.
Ticket Price
- General Admission: Free to walk around the city, but some buildings may charge a small entrance fee (around 20-50 ERN, or $1-3 USD).
Nearby Airports
- Asmara International Airport (ASM) – located about 4 km from the city center.
Railway Stations
- Asmara Railway Station – a historical landmark in itself, the station is part of the Eritrean Railway and serves as the starting point for the famous steam train rides.
Special Attention
- Asmara’s cityscape is best explored on foot or by bike, allowing you to appreciate the intricate details of its buildings.
- Be sure to visit iconic landmarks like the Fiat Tagliero Building, an extraordinary example of Futurist architecture, and the Art Deco Cinema Impero.
2. Dahlak Archipelago
Overview
The Dahlak Archipelago, located in the Red Sea off the coast of Eritrea, is a group of more than 200 islands, many of which are uninhabited and pristine. The islands are known for their crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and abundant marine life, making them a prime destination for snorkeling, scuba diving, and marine exploration. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful, unspoiled beauty of the islands, with opportunities to explore sandy beaches, lagoons, and the rich underwater ecosystem teeming with colorful fish, dolphins, and even dugongs.
Location
Located in the Red Sea, near the port city of Massawa.
Ticket Price
- Boat Tour Fees: Prices for boat trips to the islands vary, typically ranging from $100-200 USD for a day trip, depending on the tour operator and activities.
Nearby Airports
- Massawa International Airport (MSW) – approximately 40 km from the port where boats to the archipelago depart.
Railway Stations
There are no railway connections to the Dahlak Archipelago. Boats depart from Massawa, which can be reached by car or bus from Asmara.
Special Attention
- The best time to visit is during the cooler months between October and April, when the weather is ideal for water activities.
- Some islands in the archipelago are protected for their environmental importance, so ensure you follow local conservation rules.
3. Massawa Old Town
Overview
Massawa, a historic port city on the Red Sea coast, is known for its unique blend of architectural styles, including Ottoman, Egyptian, and Italian influences. The Old Town of Massawa is one of Eritrea’s most atmospheric and historically significant areas, featuring narrow streets, coral stone buildings, and impressive mosques. The city played a crucial role as a trading post and cultural melting pot throughout history. Visitors can explore historic landmarks such as the Sheikh Hanafi Mosque, the Imperial Palace, and the old port area, while enjoying the laid-back coastal ambiance of the city.
Location
Located on the coast of the Red Sea, about 100 km northeast of Asmara.
Ticket Price
- General Admission: Free to explore the Old Town, but some buildings and museums may charge small entrance fees.
Nearby Airports
- Massawa International Airport (MSW) – about 10 km from the city center.
Railway Stations
- Massawa Railway Station – the terminus of the Eritrean Railway, connecting to Asmara. Historic steam train rides between Massawa and Asmara are a popular attraction.
Special Attention
- Massawa can get very hot, especially in summer, so plan to visit in the early morning or late afternoon.
- The city was heavily damaged during the Eritrean War of Independence, and while many buildings have been restored, others remain in ruins, adding to the city’s historic charm.
4. Keren War Cemetery
Overview
The Keren War Cemetery is a moving and important historical site that commemorates the soldiers who lost their lives during the Battle of Keren in World War II. The battle, which took place in 1941, was a significant engagement between Allied and Italian forces. The cemetery, maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, contains the graves of over 440 soldiers, many of whom were from Britain, India, and Africa. Visitors can pay their respects while reflecting on the region’s role in global history.
Location
Located on the outskirts of Keren, about 91 km northwest of Asmara.
Ticket Price
- General Admission: Free.
Nearby Airports
- Asmara International Airport (ASM) – the closest major airport, about 90 km from Keren.
Railway Stations
There are no railway stations in Keren, but it is accessible by road from Asmara.
Special Attention
- The cemetery is well-maintained and provides a peaceful environment for reflection.
- Combine your visit with other attractions in Keren, such as the historic Italian fort and the vibrant Monday market.
5. Debre Bizen Monastery
Overview
Debre Bizen Monastery, perched atop a mountain near the town of Nefasit, is one of Eritrea’s most significant religious landmarks. Founded in the 14th century by Abba Filipos, the monastery is an important center of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and has a rich history of religious scholarship and monastic life. Visitors who make the challenging hike up the mountain are rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a glimpse into the ancient religious practices of the monks who still reside there. The monastery is also home to centuries-old manuscripts and religious artifacts.
Location
Located near the town of Nefasit, about 30 km east of Asmara.
Ticket Price
- General Admission: Free, but donations are appreciated. Visitors must obtain permission from the church authorities before visiting.
Nearby Airports
- Asmara International Airport (ASM) – about 40 km from the monastery.
Railway Stations
- Nefasit Railway Station – part of the historic Eritrean Railway, though trains are infrequent.
Special Attention
- The hike to the monastery is steep and can take several hours, so wear sturdy shoes and bring water.
- The monastery has strict rules regarding dress and behavior, so be respectful of the religious customs.
6. Qohaito Archaeological Site
Overview
Qohaito is an ancient archaeological site located in the highlands of Eritrea, near the town of Senafe. The site was once a major city during the Aksumite Empire, and its ruins include temples, cisterns, and tombs dating back to the 5th century BCE. Qohaito was an important center of trade and culture, and its location offers stunning views of the Great Rift Valley. Visitors can explore the remains of the ancient city, including the Temple of Mariam Wakino, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding mountains.
Location
Located near the town of Senafe, about 120 km south of Asmara.
Ticket Price
- General Admission: Free, though local guides are available for a small fee.
Nearby Airports
- Asmara International Airport (ASM) – approximately 120 km from the site.
Railway Stations
There are no railway stations near Qohaito. The site is accessible by car or bus from Asmara.
Special Attention
- The site is remote, so bring food, water, and sun protection for the day.
- The ruins are spread out over a large area, so be prepared for a lot of walking.
7. Sembel Archaeological Site
Overview
The Sembel Archaeological Site, located just outside of Asmara, is an important historical site that dates back to the pre-Aksumite civilization. Excavations at the site have uncovered evidence of a complex society, including pottery, tools, and structures that offer insight into the early history of Eritrea. The site is of particular interest to archaeologists and historians, but it also provides casual visitors with a fascinating glimpse into the ancient cultures that once thrived in this region.
Location
Located about 5 km southeast of Asmara.
Ticket Price
- General Admission: Free, though guided tours may have a small fee.
Nearby Airports
- Asmara International Airport (ASM) – about 8 km from the site.
Railway Stations
There are no railway stations near the site, but it is easily accessible by car from Asmara.
Special Attention
- The site is still undergoing excavation, so parts of it may be closed to the public.
- Visit the National Museum of Eritrea in Asmara for more information on the artifacts found at Sembel.
8. The Eritrean Railway
Overview
The Eritrean Railway is one of the most remarkable engineering feats in East Africa. Built during the Italian colonial period, the railway once connected Massawa to Asmara and beyond, traversing steep mountain passes and offering stunning views of the Eritrean highlands. Today, sections of the railway have been restored, and visitors can enjoy scenic rides on vintage steam trains, particularly between Asmara and Nefasit. The journey offers a nostalgic glimpse into Eritrea’s colonial past while providing breathtaking views of the landscape.
Location
The railway runs between Asmara and Massawa, with several stops along the way.
Ticket Price
- Train Ride Fees: Varies by route and distance, typically between $20-50 USD for a round trip.
Nearby Airports
- Asmara International Airport (ASM) – the closest major airport, located near the Asmara Railway Station.
Railway Stations
- Asmara Railway Station – the starting point for most train rides.
- Nefasit Railway Station – another popular stop along the route.
Special Attention
- Steam trains run on a limited schedule, so check availability in advance.
- The train ride is particularly popular with history buffs and photographers, so bring your camera to capture the scenic views.
9. Filfil Rainforest
Overview
The Filfil Rainforest, also known as the Green Belt, is one of Eritrea’s most biodiverse areas, located in the eastern escarpment of the Eritrean highlands. The rainforest is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including several species of monkeys, birds, and butterflies. Visitors can hike through the lush, tropical landscape, enjoy birdwatching, and experience the natural beauty of one of the last remaining rainforests in the Horn of Africa. The area is particularly beautiful after the rainy season when the forest is at its greenest.
Location
Located about 60 km northeast of Asmara, in the eastern highlands.
Ticket Price
- General Admission: Free, though guided tours may charge a small fee.
Nearby Airports
- Asmara International Airport (ASM) – approximately 65 km from the rainforest.
Railway Stations
There are no railway stations near the rainforest. Visitors typically drive from Asmara.
Special Attention
- The roads leading to the rainforest can be rough, so a 4×4 vehicle is recommended.
- The best time to visit is during the rainy season (June to September), when the forest is lush and the wildlife is most active.
10. Adulis Archaeological Site
Overview
The ancient port city of Adulis, located on the Red Sea coast, is one of Eritrea’s most significant archaeological sites. Adulis was once a thriving center of trade and commerce during the Aksumite Empire, serving as a major hub for goods traveling between Africa, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean. Excavations at the site have uncovered the remains of ancient buildings, churches, and artifacts that provide insight into the region’s historical importance. The site is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those interested in ancient civilizations.
Location
Located about 50 km south of Massawa, near the Gulf of Zula.
Ticket Price
- General Admission: Free, though guided tours may be available for a small fee.
Nearby Airports
- Massawa International Airport (MSW) – approximately 60 km from the site.
Railway Stations
There are no railway stations near Adulis. Visitors must travel by car from Massawa or Asmara.
Special Attention
- The site is remote and largely undeveloped, so bring water, food, and sun protection.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Dahlak Archipelago for a full day of exploration.